DIY Halloween Costumes for Kids

Halloween is a time for kids to unleash their creativity, and what better way to do that than by making their own costumes? With just a few household items and simple supplies, your little ones can create their own fun and unique costumes. Here are five easy DIY Halloween costume ideas that kids can make themselves—with just a little supervision.

1. Toilet Paper Mummy

This classic Halloween costume is as simple as it gets and a great last-minute option.

Supplies:

• Toilet paper or white crepe paper
• Black face paint or eyeliner (optional)

Directions:

• Simply wrap the toilet paper or crepe paper around your child’s body, leaving the face exposed.
• Secure the ends by tucking them in or using tape.
• Add some black face paint around the eyes for an extra spooky touch.

Bonus tip: Use white leggings and a long-sleeved white shirt underneath to make the mummy look more complete—and in case the toilet paper tears!

2. Ghost Costume

A twist on the traditional ghost, this one uses materials kids can easily work with, making it both cute and fun.

Supplies:

• White pillowcase or sheet
• Black felt or construction paper
• Safety scissors
• Glue or tape

Directions:

• Have your child cut out large holes for the eyes and mouth on the pillowcase or sheet.
• Use black felt or construction paper to cut out shapes for spooky eyes and a mouth, and tape or glue them on for a “friendly ghost” look.
• Drape the sheet or pillowcase over your child’s head, and voilà—instant ghost!

Bonus tip: You can also decorate the ghost with glitter or colored markers for a unique, personal touch.

3. DIY Robot

This costume is perfect for kids who love science fiction or simply enjoy using boxes and aluminum foil.

Supplies:

• Two cardboard boxes (one for the body, one for the head)
• Aluminum foil
• Bottle caps, buttons, or other small items for decoration
• Duct tape or glue

Directions:

• Cover the two boxes in aluminum foil, making sure all sides are shiny.
• Cut a hole in the top box for your child’s head, and smaller holes on the sides for their arms.
• Let your child decorate the “robot” with buttons, bottle caps, and any other household items.
• Attach the smaller box on top of their head for the robot’s “face.”

Bonus tip: Add glow sticks or small LED lights for extra robot-like effects!

4. No-Sew Superhero

Every kid loves a superhero, and this no-sew cape is the perfect way to bring their favorite character to life.

Supplies:

• An old T-shirt (adult size works best)
• Fabric markers or felt
• Scissors

Directions:

• Cut off the sleeves and front of the T-shirt, leaving the neckline intact—this becomes the cape.
• Let your child use fabric markers to draw their superhero logo or symbols.
• For an extra touch, you can cut out shapes from felt and glue them onto the cape.

Bonus tip: Create matching wristbands by cutting up the T-shirt sleeves and adding fun designs!

5. Rainbow Unicorn

Unicorns are magical, and this colorful costume is a fantastic way for kids to express their creativity.

Supplies:

• Headband
• Construction paper (white, pink, and rainbow colors)
• Cotton balls or tulle (for tail)
• Glue

Directions:

• Roll white construction paper into a cone shape and glue it to the headband to create the unicorn horn.
• Let your child cut out rainbow-colored strips of paper or use markers to create the unicorn’s “mane,” and glue or tape them to the headband.
• For the tail, attach cotton balls or strips of tulle to the back of their pants or skirt.

Bonus tip: Add glitter or stick-on gems to make the unicorn sparkle even more!

With these five easy DIY Halloween costumes, your kids can take charge of their own Halloween look. Not only will they have fun making their costumes, but they’ll also get a sense of pride knowing they created something special. Plus, these ideas are inexpensive and perfect for families who want to keep Halloween fun and budget-friendly. Happy crafting and Happy Halloween!